The likelihood of men over the age of 40 developing an enlarged prostate (often called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) increases with age. An enlarged prostate is not the same as cancer, and it does not increase a manʹs risk for developing prostate cancer. BPH is so common that it has been said that all men would have an enlarged prostate if they were to live long enough! Some of the complications of BPH are increased frequency of urination, reduced urine output, and uncontrolled ʺdribblingʺ after urination. After an enlarged prostate is surgically removed (a prostatectomy), these symptoms disappear. Based on this scenario and your knowledge of the urinary system, which of the following must be TRUE?
A) The prostate is part of the kidney and assists in urine production.
B) Prostate enlargement reduces the ability of the kidneys to filter wastes from the bloodstream.
C) The prostate is the only gland that releases ADH, which decreases urine production.
D) An enlarged prostate presses on the urethra and bladder, affecting urination.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An enlarged prostate gland can press on the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body) and the bladder, causing urinary symptoms such as increased frequency of urination, reduced urine output, and uncontrolled "dribbling" after urination. This is because the prostate surrounds the urethra just below the bladder. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they misrepresent the function and location of the prostate and its role in urine production and hormonal regulation.

The Likelihood of Men Over the Age of 40 Developing